A tiny village has been put in the spotlight after being named as one of the best places to live in the Midlands. You could be forgiven for never having heard of Bretforton, but experts say there is much to love about this hidden corner of the region.
The Worcestershire village is overshadowed by nearby Evesham, perched on the edge of the Cotswolds. It means the picture-postcard setting is surrounded by stunning scenery, and there is a much slower pace of life in 'chocolate-box' Bretforton.
It has been handpicked by expert judges at MuddyStilettos as one of the best places to live in the Midlands for 2026. They remarked how it is filled with country charm and with a proper village feel, pointing out how 'Broadway’s buzz and Stratford’s culture (are) just minutes away'.
The panel said: 'Bretforton is country charm wrapped in orchard views with Broadway’s buzz and Stratford’s culture just minutes away. Think epic village events, a cracking pub and theatre, the warmest of communities and Cotswold fringe living without the price tag.
'If you’re craving country life with a proper dose of charm and community, Bretforton might just be your rural soulmate. Set in the rolling Vale of Evesham — aka the UK’s fruit and veg basket — and perched on the edge of the North Cotswolds, this photogenic village punches well above its (honey-stone) weight.
'Straddling four counties like a total boss, you’ve got rose-clad cottages and orchard-fringed footpaths at home, with the boutiques, bars and bakeries of Broadway, Chipping Campden and Evesham just 10 mins away, and Stratford-upon-Avon in 25 mins.'
Despite its size, Bretforton buzzes with life – from its community shop and local school to its indie 'theatre barn', live music nights, and gloriously bonkers Asparagus Festival. Small, stunning, and seriously sociable, this is chocolate-box living with plenty of bite.
